A 20 inch version of The Firestone Firehawk GT has just been named the original equipment tire for the 2011 models of the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger. The Firehawk GT is an all-season, V-rated tire that has enjoyed positive reviews from consumers using it as an aftermarket replacement.

Bridgestone (makers of the Firehawk) said it will outfit the Challenger and Charger with specially designed and engineered tires in size 245/45R20 99V. The Firehawk GT will be included on 2011 Charger with R/T Plus, R/T Road & Track, R/T Max packages and Wheels & Tunes and Rally Appearance Groups.

Michael Martini, president, original equipment, U.S. and Canada Consumer Tire Sales Division, Bridgestone, had this to say: “The Charger and Challenger are icons of motorsports culture, known for their incredible performances both on the road and on the silver screen,” said “The Firestone brand has its own iconic status when it comes to on-road performances in America and linking these brands together is very exciting for us.”

Tire wholesalers looking for a good OE buy would be wise to stock up on these Firehawk models. Hopefully they will be available in OE sizing before Bridgestone’s planned price increase on April 1st.

The Toyo Proxes A20 is renowned for its low rolling resistance, wet and dry braking performance, stellar handling, and the quiet, comfortable ride it provides. The tire is already a top seller – but it’s about to get a whole lot more popular. Toyo Tire Holdings of America has announced that their Proxes A20 has been officially slated as the original equipment tire for the newest generation of the Toyota Prius, the Prius V. The Prius V eclipses the fuel economy of its predecesors with an impressive EPA-estimated 50mpg on average.

The new generation also features a 24HP boost for better performance and quicker acceleration. The revitalized exterior and expanded interior rest on a set of four 215/45R17 87V Toyo Proxes A20s, which are specially engineered to minimize the amount of friction between the tread and road surface. Less friction means the car uses less fuel to overcome resistance, resulting in improved gas mileage. Exact improvements are difficult to calculate, but the lower rolling resistance generated by the Proxes A20 certainly won’t hurt the Prius’ stellar fuel economy ratings.